Lead Service Lines at NORTHWAY STOP & SHOP (UV) (A&M)

What you need to know

NORTHWAY STOP & SHOP (UV) (A&M) serves about 300 people in New York. The utility has completed an inventory of water pipes serving the system and found that 17,253 service lines contain lead—pipes that connect the main water line under the street to individual buildings.

The utility has also identified 16,719 service lines where the lead status is still unknown, and 5,237 that are confirmed lead-free. In total, 39,209 service lines have been inventoried.

What does a lead service line mean for your home?

Lead service lines can release lead into your drinking water, especially in homes with newer plumbing or those that use hot water from the tap. Lead exposure is a real health concern, particularly for children and pregnant people. If your home was built before the 1980s and you live in this service area, there is a higher chance your line contains lead.

The only way to know for certain is to have your line tested or to contact the utility directly—they have records of service line materials in their inventory.

What can you do right now?

If you suspect you have a lead service line:

• Contact NORTHWAY STOP & SHOP (UV) (A&M) to ask about your specific address
• Request a copy of the utility's lead service line inventory or records
• Ask what the utility's replacement timeline and funding situation are

To reduce potential exposure while you investigate:

• Run cold water for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before drinking or cooking, especially if the water has been sitting in pipes overnight
• Use cold water for cooking and drinking; hot water dissolves lead more easily
• Have your water tested if you're concerned

For health questions, contact your pediatrician or the CDC's lead information line.

Next steps for residents

• Call or visit the utility's office to ask if your address has a lead service line on record
• Request the full lead inventory if it's publicly available online or by request
• Test your water if you want to know current lead levels (contact your local health department for approved labs)
• Ask about replacement programs and whether any federal or state funding is available to replace lead lines at your property

How do I know if my house has a lead service line?

Contact NORTHWAY STOP & SHOP (UV) (A&M) with your address—they have an inventory of service line materials. You can also have a plumber inspect the line where it enters your home, though a full visual inspection may require digging.

Is it dangerous to drink water from a lead service line?

Lead can leach into drinking water, and long-term exposure—especially for children and pregnant people—poses health risks. The risk depends on water chemistry, pipe age, and how long water sits in the line. Have your water tested to know your actual lead levels.

Can I remove a lead service line myself?

Removing a service line requires a licensed plumber and permits from the utility and local authorities. Contact NORTHWAY STOP & SHOP (UV) (A&M) to ask about replacement programs, costs, and whether grants or low-interest loans are available.

What should I do if I'm worried about lead in my water?

First, contact your utility to check your service line status. Second, run cold water before use and test your water quality. Third, talk to your doctor or pediatrician about lead exposure, especially if you have young children.